Mint and Cumin Salted Lassi

I got lost in a Google search time-suck.  I really did have the best intentions.  I was very fervently doing research for a Boston Cream Pie recipe when I stumbled upon the words ‘Salted’ and ‘Lassi’.  Hm.  Usually I find the word ‘Lassi’ paired with the word ‘Mango’, and I’m made to think of the too-thick-for-my-taste yogurt drink served at Indian restaurants.  A Salted Lassi is totally a new addition to my culinary mind.

This yogurt-based drink is paired with fresh mint and cumin.  Yea!  Cumin!  Get excited… this is actually really cool.

The mixture is blended until herby and smooth and them topped with a bit of sparkling water for serving.  This drink is super fresh, easy to drink, and majorly refreshing.  Paired with a super spicy chicken dish… seriously!?  This was delicious enough to make me forget about Boston Cream Pie.

Ps.  I like that we try new things together.

Pps.  Maybe this Salted Lassi isn’t new to you… in which case, what other treats do you have up your sleeve!?

This savory lassi starts with simple and humble ingredients.  I pulled together whole-milk yogurt, a big handful of fresh mint, whole cumin seeds, and  a grey sea salt.  We’re going to make these drinkable!

We use whole cumin seeds because we want to get the most flavor out of the spice as possible.  Whole cumin is toasted in a dry skillet then crushed in a small spice grinder.  I use this coffee grinder as a spice grinding situation and it works like a gem!

The fresh mint and yogurt combination makes this drink super tart and incredibly refreshing.

What is it about fresh mint that feels like a power herb?

Glasses are filled with ice and in goes the minty yogurt mixture.  I filled the glasses halfway with lassi then topped them off with sparkling water and a sprinkling of salt.

In essence, what we’re talking about is a savory yogurt-based soda.

Are you giving me the raised eyebrow?

Allow me to suggest you grab a super spicy chicken kabob, pair it with this mega-refreshing soda, and call me in the morning.

These Salted Lassis are surprising and refreshing.  The yogurt adds a creamy and tart element.  The mint is bright refreshment.  The cumin lends a grounding element to the bright and tart flavors.  The salt makes things all around enticing.  It really is delicious!

Oh!  If you’re wondering, I found these glasses at a place called H.D. Buttercup here in Los Angeles… though I couldn’t find a direct link to the glasses.